pjifl wrote:Limitations placed on equipment by overzealous weight restrictions have resulted in a search for extremely light stocks. To retain what was once 'normal' stock rigidity in these very light stocks now necessitates carbon fibre shells and strips. Some call it progress but I am not so sure. Maybe on a lightweight rifle to be carried in the bush but we are more into target shooting.
Shooters have been conned into thinking that limiting rifle weight brings a more even playing field. Actually, the opposite happens. All it does is push the price of competitive equipment up and play into the hands of those who can pay more skilled gunsmiths. Its all a result of demands by shooters who know no better but have the cash to spend hoping this will mitigate against poorer technique.
Carbon fibre is a marvelous material. But it has its limitations when design is taken to extremes. Like when a Yacht's keel falls off.
It is good to see it used well but I don't think design rules should make it almost mandatory so as to comply with weight rules.
it is better if the Centre of Mass of the rifle as a unit is not too low and this should be considered in a stock.
I think stiffness has become an end in itself. Like, why is it better ! Vehicles do not benefit from extra stiff uncompliant suspension. A TR shooters glove contact is not meant to be rigid - rather it is compliant.
Yip - thats where I have landed.
My racing days taught me too much flex is a bad thing - but so was too much rigidity. A really rigid bike frame loaded up tyres and suspension. Tyres squirmed and so the sidewalls got lowered and became more rigid - the suspension needed to absorb the outcome of the rigidity - no free lunch - the package needed to work.
Our rear bags and front rests are like the suspension in my opinion (hint read any articles about making the front bag too hard)...something worth thinking about for those purchasing the ultimate in rigid stocks.
I believe the materials are driven by external ballistics - we need to shoot heavier bullets is the primary starting point for advantage.